South Asian News Network

Kathmandu, April 22 — Sudan Gurung has resigned as Nepal’s Home Minister following mounting controversy over his share investments and growing political pressure for an independent investigation.
In a public statement shared on social media, Gurung said he stepped down to ensure a fair and impartial inquiry, stressing that ethical responsibility outweighs holding office. He noted that public trust and demands for transparency—especially from younger citizens—guided his decision.
The controversy centers on Gurung’s investment in Star Micro Insurance Company Ltd, where he reportedly holds shares worth Rs 2.5 million. The issue drew scrutiny due to the involvement of other investors, including Deepak Bhatta, who faces money laundering allegations, and businessman Sulav Agarwal.
Questions were also raised about whether Gurung had properly disclosed these holdings in his official asset declaration. He denied any wrongdoing, asserting that all his investments—exceeding Rs 20 million—are transparently listed and that the insurance shares fall within already declared categories. He further stated that the investment was made through a formal loan agreement and processed via banking channels.
Despite his defense, opposition parties including the Nepali Congress and CPN UML demanded his resignation and called for an independent probe. Gurung also held discussions with Rabi Lamichhane, president of the ruling party, before stepping down.
Gurung’s resignation adds to a series of recent controversies affecting the Rastriya Swatantra Party-led government. Earlier, Labour Minister Deepak Kumar Sah lost his position over a nepotism-related dispute, while Health Minister Nisha Mehta received an official warning.
The latest development raises further questions about governance and stability within the newly formed administration, as calls grow louder for accountability and institutional integrity.